Sometimes you cannot get to a notary. Maybe the signer is in the hospital, a loved one cannot leave home, or a closing has to happen after hours. That is what a mobile notary is for. Instead of you traveling to an office, the notary comes to you.
What a Mobile Notary Is
A mobile notary is a commissioned notary public who travels to your location to witness signatures and complete notarizations. The notarial act is exactly the same as in an office. The only difference is convenience.
When It Helps
- A signer is homebound, ill or recovering
- A resident in a hospital, rehab or care facility needs a document notarized
- A signing has to happen outside office hours
- Several signers need to meet in one place
- A time-sensitive document cannot wait
- Mobility or transportation makes getting to a notary difficult
What to Have Ready
The same preparation as an office visit keeps it short. Have valid photo ID for each signer, the complete unsigned document, every signer present at once, and any required witnesses. As always, do not sign beforehand. For the full checklist, see how to get something notarized.
About Fees
A mobile visit usually involves the notarization plus a travel or convenience component. Massachusetts does not set one statewide maximum fee for ordinary notarizations, so any fee is agreed and disclosed before the visit. Confirm the total up front.
What a Notary Still Cannot Do
Coming to you does not change the limits. A notary, mobile or not, cannot give legal advice, choose or fill out your form, notarize without valid ID, or notarize for someone not present. A notary is not an attorney.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a mobile notary?
A commissioned notary who travels to your location to witness signatures and complete notarizations. The act is the same as in an office.
When should I use one?
When a signer cannot travel, is in a hospital or care facility, needs an after-hours signing, or when getting to a notary is difficult.
Does it cost more?
Usually there is a travel component in addition to the notarization. Massachusetts does not cap most notary fees, so confirm the total before booking.
Can a mobile notary give legal advice?
No. A notary is not an attorney and cannot give legal advice or notarize without valid ID or the signer present.
Notary Services in Stoughton, MA
One Health and Beyond offers notary services in Stoughton. See what documents need to be notarized, or contact us.
